A Story Of Faithlessness & Faithfulness

By Pastor Jason Lim

The story of Numbers is a story of Israel's faithlessness and God's faithfulness.

1. Faithlessness

The 1st generation of Israelites who followed Moses failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief. Though they crossed the Red Sea, were under the Pillar of Cloud, and were identified with Moses, the majority did not believe God. As such, they repeatedly disobeyed God, and their carcasses died in the wilderness. All the good intentions at Mount Sinai, all the miracles they witnessed, all the association with Moses could not save them. Their hearts were evil and unbelieving.

2. Faithfulness

In spite of their faithlessness, God remains faithful to His promise to Abraham, Isaac & Jacob. He promised them that in a special offspring from their line (who the rest of scriptures revealed to be the Lord Jesus Christ), God will still bless Israel, and all other nations. Thus God still proceeded to work out His plans to bless by giving Israel a 2nd chance to enter the Promised Land 40 years later.

3. Fulfilment

The Promised land was promised as an everlasting possession. No King, Prophet or Priest in the entire Old Testament can lead Israel into everlasting peace and joy. But in the New Testament, we learn that only Jesus can. Only He can be the perfect Prophet, Priest & King. Only He will lead us into the new Heavens and new Earth, that Heavenly city that God has promised.

Numbers is therefore an example against desiring evil. It is a warning to take heed, hold fast, and pay attention to the gospel of Jesus Christ. May we hold tight to God's promise and persevere to the end, for then, we will enter our rest in the Promised Land!